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Adventure

Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

A 12-day journey through Iran’s ancient wonders, desert beauty, and living Persian culture

Plan this trip
Night sky over an illuminated brick caravanserai in the desert
Persepolis & Naqsh-e Rostam – the heart of Persian civilization on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey
Yazd’s Zoroastrian heritage and unique desert architecture on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey
  1. Arrival in Tehran
  2. Tehran
  3. Tehran to Kashan
  4. Kashan to Yazd via Meybod & Nain
  5. Yazd
  6. Yazd to Varzaneh Desert
  7. Varzaneh to Isfahan
  8. Isfahan
  9. Isfahan to Shiraz via Persepolis
  10. Shiraz
  11. Departure from Shiraz
Duration
12 days

What this tour includes

Authenticity

Stay in boutique houses and eco-lodges that reflect Iran’s traditional architecture.

Cultural Depth

Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, connect with artisans, and uncover living history.

Adventure & Nature

Cross golden deserts, ride camels, and enjoy serene nights under the stars.

Scenes along the itinerary

Persepolis & Naqsh-e Rostam – the heart of Persian civilization on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey
Persepolis & Naqsh-e Rostam – the heart of Persian civilization
Yazd’s Zoroastrian heritage and unique desert architecture on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey
Yazd’s Zoroastrian heritage and unique desert architecture
Overnight eco-camp under the desert stars on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey
Overnight eco-camp under the desert stars
Isfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square and its iconic bridges on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey
Isfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square and its iconic bridges
A cultural encounter with the Qashqai nomads on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey
A cultural encounter with the Qashqai nomads

Our Crafted Path

Everything we offer is fully bespoke – the itinerary below is just an example of what our experts can create with you.

01Day 1: Arrival in Tehran – First ImpressionsArrival in Tehran
Day 1: Arrival in Tehran – First Impressions on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Welcome to Imam Khomeini International Airport. Depending on your arrival time, visit Tajrish Bazaar or enjoy a relaxed evening with Persian cuisine.

02Day 2: Tehran – Museums & PalacesTehran
Day 2: Tehran – Museums & Palaces on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Discover the capital’s heritage through the National Museum, Golestan Palace (UNESCO), and the Grand Bazaar. Overnight in Tehran.

03Day 3: Tehran to Kashan – Gardens & HeritageTehran to Kashan
Day 3: Tehran to Kashan – Gardens & Heritage on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Drive to Kashan to explore Fin Garden, Tabatabaei Historical House, and Agha Bozorg Mosque. Stay in a boutique guesthouse.

04Day 4: Kashan to Yazd via Meybod & Nain – Desert TownsKashan to Yazd via Meybod & Nain
Day 4: Kashan to Yazd via Meybod & Nain – Desert Towns on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Stop in Meybod to see the ancient pigeon tower and caravanserai, then visit Nain’s old mosque before reaching Yazd. Evening walk through the old quarter.

05Day 5: Yazd – Zoroastrian Roots & Desert LifeYazd
Day 5: Yazd – Zoroastrian Roots & Desert Life on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Visit the Fire Temple, Towers of Silence, Amir Chakhmaq Square, and Yazd’s iconic windcatchers. Learn about Zoroastrian traditions. Overnight in Yazd.

06Day 6: Yazd to Varzaneh Desert – StargazingYazd to Varzaneh Desert
Day 6: Yazd to Varzaneh Desert – Stargazing on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Head deep into the desert. Enjoy camel rides, explore the salt lake, and share dinner at a desert eco-camp. Experience the magic of stargazing in complete silence.

07Day 7: Varzaneh to Isfahan – Half of the WorldVarzaneh to Isfahan
Day 7: Varzaneh to Isfahan – Half of the World on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Arrive in Isfahan to admire Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Shah Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Overnight in a boutique hotel.

08Day 8: Isfahan – Bridges & BazaarsIsfahan
Day 8: Isfahan – Bridges & Bazaars on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Visit Chehel Sotoun Palace, explore the Armenian Quarter and Vank Cathedral, then enjoy an evening stroll by Khaju and Si-o-se-pol bridges.

09Day 9: Isfahan to Shiraz via Persepolis – Glory of PersiaIsfahan to Shiraz via Persepolis
Day 9: Isfahan to Shiraz via Persepolis – Glory of Persia on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Drive to Shiraz with visits to Persepolis and Naqsh-e Rostam. Explore these magnificent ancient sites before arriving in Shiraz.

10Day 10: Shiraz – Poetry & GardensShiraz
Day 10: Shiraz – Poetry & Gardens on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Visit the Nasir al-Mulk (Pink) Mosque, Eram Garden, Vakil Bazaar, and the tombs of Hafez and Saadi. Evening at leisure.

11Day 11: Shiraz – Nomadic ExperienceShiraz
Day 11: Shiraz – Nomadic Experience on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Take a day trip to meet Qashqai nomads and learn about their vibrant traditions and lifestyle. Return to Shiraz for a farewell dinner.

12Day 12: Departure from ShirazDeparture from Shiraz
Day 12: Departure from Shiraz on Ancient Legacies & Desert Dreams: A 12-Day Iran Journey

Transfer to Shiraz International Airport for your flight home. End of journey.

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